Former Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has emphasized the need for transparency and accountability among Members of Parliament (MPs) who either opposed or abstained from voting on the contentious salary increase for themselves and other officials. He suggested that these MPs should demonstrate their commitment by donating the additional funds they would receive to charitable organizations.
In the May 2024 vote, 40 MPs supported the pay increase for the President, Speaker, Ministers, Assistant Ministers, and MPs, while seven voted against it, and five abstained. Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum expressed concerns about the integrity of those who opposed or abstained, stating that if they were genuinely against the salary hike, they should have already contributed to charity or established a trust intended to assist ordinary Fijians.
He reiterated the importance of full transparency, advocating for MPs to publicly disclose any charitable contributions, arguing that this would serve as proof of their sincerity regarding their opposition to the pay rise. Failing to act, he warned, would place these MPs in a morally compromised position similar to those who supported the increase, especially as many ordinary Fijians struggle with economic challenges.
Mr. Sayed-Khaiyum called on MPs to show political wisdom and moral leadership by taking decisive action in line with their stated opposition to the pay rise. He concluded that taking immediate and public action would affirm their alignment with the interests of ordinary Fijians, lest their opposition be perceived as merely symbolic.
This situation presents an opportunity for MPs to not only respond to public sentiment but also to cultivate goodwill and trust among constituents by turning their words into genuine acts of support for their communities. Engaging with charity could foster a spirit of unity and lead to meaningful contributions, reinforcing a sense of accountability and shared responsibility in addressing the needs of the population.
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